Bulgogi Ground Beef

Bulgogi ground beef is a modern twist on the classic Korean Bulgogi dish, which traditionally features thinly sliced beef marinated in a sweet and savory sauce. In this variation, ground beef is used instead, providing a convenient and versatile option for preparing this beloved Korean dish. The recipe typically involves combining ground beef with a marinade made from soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and other seasonings such as ginger and black pepper. The marinade infuses the ground beef with rich flavors and helps to tenderize the meat. Bulgogi ground beef can be cooked in various ways, including stir-frying, grilling, or pan-frying, depending on personal preference and available cooking equipment.

Bulgogi ground beef is a popular choice in Korean cuisine, offering a delicious and quick-to-prepare alternative to traditional Bulgogi. Its roots can be traced back to ancient Korean culinary traditions, where marinating and grilling meat were common cooking techniques. The technique of using ground beef allows for easier marination and quicker cooking times compared to thinly sliced beef. Bulgogi ground beef is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, such as Korean tacos, rice bowls, or lettuce wraps, showcasing the adaptability and creativity of Korean cooking.

Serve with Korean Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim) and Korean Bean Sprouts (Kongnamul Muchim).

MeatBeefAsian

Prep Time: 10 min

Cook Time: 15 min

Total Time: 25 min

Yield: 4 servings

A bowl of bulgogi-style ground beef topped with scallions and sesame seeds.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 5 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
  • ½ cup soy sauce
  • ⅓ cup light brown sugar
  • 2 Tbsp. mirin or rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp. lime juice
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • 6 scallions, chopped, divided
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. 1.
    Heat the skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. 2.
    Add ground beef, stir, and break up until browned, 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3.
    Pour off any excess grease.
  4. 4.
    Add garlic, ginger, and sesame oil and cook to release aromas, 1-2 min
  5. 5.
    Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, brown sugar, and red pepper.
  6. 6.
    Add scallion whites and cook until sauce is reduced and absorbed by the beef.
  7. 7.
    Top with scallions and sesame seeds.